HEKS/EPER is making a difference in the «Advocacy for asylum seekers» in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is rich in natural resources. Yet there is considerable poverty in the society. Moreover, bad governance and strife have rendered the social and political situation highly unstable. The crime rate is high and violence against women is rife. Land conflicts lead repeatedly to violence and ethnic tensions. HEKS/EPER is playing a part in conflict prevention and resolution and assists farming families in securing their right to own land and in boosting agricultural output.

Facts

In 2017, some 19000 people living in a conflict-ridden environment were reached through peace initiatives or protective measures.

Respect for human dignity is one of the cornerstones of the Swiss State. This means that everyone is entitled to personal respect. Asylum seekers and refugees are in a particularly vulnerable situation, as their country can no longer provide them with this protection or has withdrawn it. They often speak none of Switzerland's national languages and do not know the Swiss legal system. During the complex asylum process they need neutral information and often legal representation as well. The legal advice offices for asylum seekers run by HEKS/EPER in 11 cantons provide them with these services.